Mondelēz set to acquire Tate’s Bake Shop, expands offerings in premium cookie segment

08 May 2018

08 May 2018 --- Mondelēz International has announced an agreement with The Riverside Company, a global private equity firm, and other shareholders, including Founder Kathleen King, to acquire Tate’s Bake Shop for approximately US$500 million. Known for its signature thin-and-crispy cookies with simple, authentic, high-quality ingredients, Tate’s is a fast-growing, premium cookie and baked goods brand.

Founded in 2000 on Long Island, NY, Tate’s has cultivated a devoted consumer following across the country. With a strong founder story and on-trend products, Tate’s has been one of the fastest growing biscuit brands in the United States over the last 12 months. The brand’s sales have quadrupled over the past five years. In 2018, retail sales in measured channels have grown by more than 40 percent through March.

“Tate’s is a great strategic fit that will complement our portfolio of beloved snacks brands,” said Dirk Van de Put, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “With a unique and authentic brand and truly delicious products, this acquisition gives us an attractive entry point into the fast-growing premium cookie segment. Tate’s has demonstrated exceptional and very profitable growth, and we look forward to working with Tate‘s management team to expand distribution and build upon that success.”

“We’re thrilled and humbled to be joining a portfolio of some of the world’s most well-known and successful snacking brands,” said Maura Mottolese, Chief Executive Officer, Tate’s Bake Shop. “Consistent with Mondelēz International’s purpose to create more moments of joy for consumers, providing an authentic, delicious indulgence has been at the heart of Tate’s Bake Shop since Kathleen first opened her storefront nearly two decades ago. Now, together with Mondelēz International, we’ll have the opportunity to take Tate’s to the next level and offer our cookies and baked treats to many more consumers across North America.”

Mondelēz International will operate Tate’s as a separate standalone business to nurture its entrepreneurial spirit and maintain the authenticity of the brand while providing resources to accelerate growth. Tate’s Bake Shop senior leadership will continue to run Tate‘s business from its headquarters on Long Island, including its Bake Shop located in Southampton. Tate’s will continue to produce all products at its current manufacturing facility.

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close during the summer of 2018.